For Immediate Release: June 17th, 2026 – OHSWEKEN, ON – The Six Nations of the Grand River 59th Elected Council strongly rejects recent comments made by a Brantford City Councillor Greg Martin dismissing land acknowledgements as “virtue signalling.”
Land acknowledgements are intended to educate people on the history and origins of lands that are occupied today. Land acknowledgements are also a means to formally recognize that the original inhabitants of this land – First Nations and their rights holders – continue to exist, govern, and maintain their inherent treaty rights. These rights are not historical artifacts—they are living and ongoing.
The Six Nations of the Grand River 59th Elected Council remains committed to working with municipalities, including the City of Brantford, to strengthen relationships based on truth, respect, education, and our shared history and responsibilities.
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Media Contact Information: SIX NATIONS OF THE GRAND RIVER 59TH ELECTED COUNCIL STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Darrien Bomberry, Public Relations Coordinator, P: (226) 387-0826
1695 Chiefswood Road, P.O. Box 5000, Ohsweken Ontario N0A 1M0
